Leisure facilities given multi-million pound boost

Leisure facilities across West Oxfordshire are to receive a £9.3m investment programme over the next 10 years.

Highlights being considered are set to involve a Phase Two extension of Carterton Leisure Centre including an indoor trampoline park along with new equipment and upgraded cafes and vending machines at all sites.

The Windrush Leisure Centre will receive a new mezzanine floor to increase gym space along with a new sensory room; Chipping Norton Leisure Centre will see an extension of its health and fitness area while Woodstock Outdoor Pool will be given new soft play equipment and a café refurbishment.

A further 30 full-time jobs will be created at the facilities owned by West Oxfordshire District Council along with 20 apprentice positions a year with the aim being to more than double the number of users visiting the facilities in the next five years to 1.5 million.

The pledges have been made by centre operator GLL which has had its contract renewed for the next 10 years following a tendering process.

Cllr Jeanette Baker, (pictured) Cabinet Member for Leisure and Health, said: “It is really exciting to be able to offer such fantastic facilities to residents in the near future. I know people in Carterton have been waiting patiently for Phase Two of the leisure centre and soon we can start work.

“It will have a fantastic impact on the health and wellbeing of a huge number of residents across the district.”

The new contract begins on 1 August and will see GLL, which operates under the ‘Better’ brand, continue to manage Bartholomew Sports Centre in Eynsham, Carterton ATP, Carterton Leisure Centre, Carterton Pavilion, Chipping Norton Leisure Centre, Windrush Leisure Centre in Witney, Witney Artificial Turf Pitch and Woodstock Open Air Pool.

Talented athletes across West Oxfordshire will once again be able to access funding from the GLL Sport Foundation, which aims to support and develop young sportsmen and women in order to help them achieve their Olympic and Paralympic ambitions.

GLL Managing Director Mark Sesnan said: “We have a good knowledge and understanding of the area and are proud to be furthering our commitment to local residents, providing first class, affordable leisure and sporting facilities.”